Reviews of Waccatee Zoological Farm (Zoo)

Mallory Akins

Best zoo I’ve ever been too!! You’re up close to animals and get to feed most of them. Lots of nature walking and there’s a boardwalk that’s very cool that is over marsh area. The zookeepers were very nice and knowledgeable. My boys are 2 and 3 years old and loved it. We will be coming back when we are back in the Myrtle Beach area for sure!

Eric Oddo

Go to Google, and simply type in "Waccatee Zoo suffering." This place made our family uncomfortable. It just doesn't seem like they have the training, resources and expertise to handle large animals like lions, tigers, bears, monkeys, etc. Many of the animals were in extremely confined spaces and looked visibly stressed and unhealthy. Also, a tree had fallen down on a part of a separation fence creating a huge safety issue (there are alligators in the park), but the ladies who run the place had no idea when we brought it to their attention.

Stephen Knight

Love the interaction with the animals!

caitlin gallagher

Welcoming committee of peacocks, loved that they roamed free! Spent 2.5 hours there, there was SO much to see and you can feed them as well! All in the outdoors in natural like habitats, unlike your average zoo where everything is in small habitats just to display. They also have a river with a large amount of wild cranes and turtles. Big variety of species and definetly worth the price! The variety of baby animals was the best part, but the bears could use a little more space

maya elliott

please don’t go to this pathetic excuse for a zoo. the animals are kept in small, dirty enclosures and show very obvious signs of depression and discomfort with being in their situation. please watch the videos on the “close waccatee zoo” for video evidence of these horrible conditions. don’t spend your money here.

WE Y

This zoo is terrible. What is it with the South and the fact that it can't operate a zoo? Save your money and go to a zoo in Seattle or San Diego or St. Louis or Indianapolis. It operates purely for profit. And it has been cited for not providing adequate vet care or clean water. It kept a chimp in isolation for 25 years.#rednecks

Isabel Mcdonald

It's good for the kids but not the best zoo they do a very poor job and keeping it up !!!

paulshchetinin

Staff was nice. Place isn't too well kept. Some animals were missing.

cody tarr

I love zoos in general but this place had the feeling of a dying business. Lots of crushed or abandoned enclosures the map we were given was useless because of how shuffled around the animals were and how few were in their own exhibits. This being said I did enjoy myself and it's a much more reasonably priced attraction than anything close to the resorts. Also go for the nature walk. The turtles swarm underneath the bridges the birds covered the trees and gators lurked in the swamp. All and all would be 5 stars if it was better maintained and organized

ASHLEY BRADDY

Better than we expected. Loved the peacocks. We didn't get to see the kangaroo or alligator. But it was definitely a great visit. Be prepared to walk and it's alot of roots and uneven terrain so wear comfortable shoes. Staff was extremely friendly. Will definitely recommend to others and would visit again during next trip.

Tyler

This place needs to be shut down. Get it together PETA and close them for good. The people of horry county do not want embarrassment. If you like animal abuse come on in. Dont forget the peanuts that every animal can be fed.

Sandra Schmitz

Good size zoo. Check in lady a little rude. Animals are not well taken care of. Not wheel chair friendly.

Alex D

DO NOT GO TO THIS ZOO. The animals are in psychological distress, living in poor conditions, have injuries and are NOT happy. Animals do NOT belong in confinement, they belong in their natural habitats living in peace. If you enjoy this zoo you should be ashamed of yourselves, and the people working there should be ashamed of themselves, the animals living the way they do is ANIMAL ABUSE. If you love animals including your own then think how you wouldn't want them living like the poor animals in this disgusting zoo.

Nick Gonzales

This place is disgusting I wish the owners would be locked up in those cages. Those poor animals suffer daily please don’t waste your money here. It’s truly a depressing and heartbreaking environment those poor animals look so hungry and so broken inside. And if you need anymore proof go on Facebook and search close wacatee zoo to see further video and REAL reviews. I’m not affiliated with that page at all besides the face I follow it and suggest you do to. These poor animals need a voice and we are the only ones capable of doing so.

Diana Rankin

Animals were underfed. One deer had only bones. Too many animals in small cages. Animals were pacing and stressed. There was garbage,bottles, walkways falling. Very sad to watch the animals. Some animals were crying for food, shoving others out of the way to get it.

Jasa Wolfrey

Fun experience for all. Feed the animals. Nature all around you!

Patrick Bailey

It is a nice zoo with clean animal cages. I share with others in feeling sorry for some of the animals. Mainly, the big cats. The thing is, this zoo could do without them as the feeding is probably the best thing. I loved feeding the deer and the camel. It's an intimate experience and it correlates to the Lions, tigers et cetera. Overall, great experience.

Roniegus Lyons

This place is trash. Animals look mistreated and starved, there are lots tiger and bears oh my, but it's not worth it.

Jared Keith

These poor creatures are clearly showing signs of distress. Their enclosures are subpar and I feel like they really lack what the animal requires. The cats are just pacing back and fourth. All of the animals look poorly taken care of. Just don't go please! go on a nature walk and enjoy the real outside.

Courtney Martell

Small zoo, some of the animals appeared to be in distress. They appeared depraved, some very skinny and just a sad state of affairs.

Bernard Cunniff

You're up close so you can see the animals well. Great for pictures. Great price, too.

Dawn Dixon

My boys and I truly enjoyed this well kept Zoological farm. The animals were beautiful and very well kept. We had a great time and spent about 3 hours enjoying the animals.

Ruthanne Kilburn

Very nice zoo to visit. Different animals to see

Joe Levine

Great place to see and feed exotic and domestic animals. Wonderful experience.

Tina Lovin

i have been going to this zoo since i was a kid now i take my own kids.

Carol Ruszin

Been going there 20 years. Starting to get run down. More chicken and goats.

Beatriz Betancourt

Awesome experience! My kids had a blast!

John Mashburn

Reasonably priced. Fun.

Raymond Labbe

Cool place to visit but not in a heat wave ..

Beth Burrell

This is my first time leaving a review and if I was able to give this no stars I would. I don’t understand how this “zoo” is allowed to have these animals. The cages are way too tiny and overcrowded in some cases. The lion cages look like they’d be the right size to exercise my dog. Shame on these people for treating the animals this way. It’s no wonder there’s signs all over the place that you aren’t allowed to film. Save your money and DO NOT support this place.

Phil Surette

A nice family friendly zoo, but needs repairs...

Victoria Bullard

Excellent little zoo tucked away. We got to be so close to all the animals, pet them and feed them. My 3 year old daughter had a ball. Excellent price as well!

Ryleigh Danford

The zoo is horrible. The animals are obviously depressed. NOT the care they need, blatant neglect.

Rina Walk

I visit this zoo about 3 times a year. Small but fun to feed the animals. The antique car collection is interesting. The area could use some tidying up. And the vendor stations are always closed. Take a snack and enjoy it in the parking lot. Entrance is pricey, about $12.

Joe Russell

I wish I would have taken pictures. Who ever owns this needs to close down and find rescue for the animals in here. The poor lions and bear had NO room, just a small cage. The tiger looked very I'll. Pretty sure there were dead Savannah monitors in their cage. You may want to honor your dad or grandfather's legacy by staying open, honor the lives of the poor animals in this park. Someone needs to step in and intervene. Very sad. Please avoid this. It's not right.

Rob Pivovarnick

Awesome family run zoo. The staff are really friendly and there is plenty of share to walk around. Wear closed toe shoes for walking on the path as most of it is sand and dirt. The animals are ready to see and very close. Great for kids.

Amanda Peru

I love this zoo. I grew up here and it was a big part of my childhood. The people working here do their best to take care of the animals and are wonderful I hope this place is around for a long time so I can take my kids there someday!

Jesse Lesher

This is not your standard zoo. Sand trails on a self guided tour that has poor signage. The goat to any other animal ratio is way off. One nice thing about it is that it is heavily wooded and thus well shaded, making it a nice reprieve from baking in the sun at the beach. If you take the time to stop and admire each animal, is will easily take you 4 to 5 hours to get through it. They sell all matter of animal food to feed the animals. The price for feed is reasonable.

Lauren Goodell

Looks can be deceiving! I absolutely loved this place was awesome! Great pricing and it had a lot to offer. So many animals to see and great walking trails to see everything. Very family friendly for all ages.

Doc Siphon

One of the most eclectic "zoos" we have ever visited. We enjoyed ourselves immensely.

Lori Marcrom

Small zoo. Shaded. Great prices. Been taking family since early 90s.

Veronica Bean

Cheap family activity while at the beach. However, I do feel as though it could be a little cleanier and the exhibits a little better maintained.

Michael L

Shame on you if you visit this "zoo." I'm writing to urge you to retire all the animals at Waccatee Zoo to reputable facilities. I was appalled to learn that, for years, the tiger at your facility has been observed pacing in a cramped, rundown enclosure and that primates have been seen frantically biting themselves—all signs of psychological distress. Other animals with injuries or ailments didn't receive adequate veterinary care. These animals deserve to live in habitats that meet their individual needs—and where big cats, bears, and primates can roam, exercise, socialize, and play. Llamas, goats, and other animals should live in clean, comfortable spaces and receive the veterinary care that they need.

Kevin Lynch

This is one of thee best zoos in this area. I came down to visit for the week and saw a few options and this one beat the rest out. What I really liked about this place is that the animals were out in the open and there was a lot of interaction between them and the guests. You get to feed them and pet most of them. There are signs throughout each enclosure informing guests if they can be fed or not and it was very informative. They provide a detailed map for you with some nice views of the property. Peacocks are EVERYWHERE and very exciting to watch. The staff members were very knowledgeable of the animals and showed a very loving attitude and appreciation for them. The other perk of this zoo is that every dollar spent on the place goes right back into the maintenance and upkeep of the property and the zoo. It was so nice here that my partner and I returned for a second visit this week. I would highly recommend stopping in to this zoo. Very family friendly and a nice exciting trip! BRAVO!

Kay Farmer

Loved being able to feed and interact with the animals, felt like enclosures could be a little better constructed and the animals needed some TLC in their personal care as in grooming, but overall was a wonderful experience. I loved the Scottish Highland cow and the sheep and goats and the donkeys were fun too.Someone in a wheel chair or using a walker might have a little trouble getting around because the trails have some tree roots, but please don't let this discourage you. We had a great time, be sure to buy plenty of kibble and peanuts.

Heather Tognarina

Most horrible experience I’ve ever had at a zoo, the animals are in cages that are way to small first off, the poor bears, tigers and lions shouldn’t even be there... many animals are depressed and suffering from skin conditions. This is just a nightmare and I felt uneasy and sickened from the moment I entered till the moment I left. Don’t waste your money, and don’t support these terrible conditions!

Jessica Burke

I would like to start by saying I have no affiliation with PETA, in fact I think PETA is a joke. I am not some crazy animal right activist either. I am just a regular mom who was on vacation and I took my 2 year old to visit this "zoo." They sold us a bag of peanuts and I asked which animals we were allowed to feed and was told "all of them." The gift shop you enter and exit from was small and dirty. It was filled with giant snakes and birds in much too small cages. This was my first red flag. We entered the outside area and literally EVERY animal were in cages WAY too small for them. The bear was kept in a cage no longer than 6 feet long with a depth of 5 feet at MOST. His cage was maybe 6 feet tall with no place for him to climb or roam. Every cage was filthy and cramped. Every animal appeared lethargic and depressed. I immediately regretted giving these people money. It was like a giant junk yard with old cars, old machinery, giant pieces of metal, and garbage EVERYWHERE. Trees were down and fences were crushed. It made me want to cry and the terrible conditions the animals are kept have been on my mind all day. These people should be ashamed of themselves. This is animal abuse and the fact this place has not been shut down is beyond shocking to me. I wish I had read reviews before I visited, I never would've taken my child here or given them money to support this kind of treatment. Shame on you Waccatee owners and employees!!!

Kristopher Redick

I've been several times as a child and an adult and this is the first time I was a le to take my child with me. I love that she got the opportunity to see all the animals and even get up close with some of them. I just wish some of the living conditions where better for the animals. I wouldn't say they're cruel, I just think they could do better.

Bobby Kitts

We had a great time here. You will see alot on animals large zoos dont have. Dont let the bad reviews turn you away.

Chris Racer

Kids love it. Some animals could use bigger habitats like racoon that was pacing and the cats.

Destina Cuffee

This place was nice you will see animals you wouldn't expect to see at the zoo/farm

Autumn Bates

This was a great experience for my kids. Wonderful owners and it's family owned.

Kayla Chestnut

This place needs to be shut down. The animals are in distress and they deserve SO much better!

Alyssa Rose

Zoo was alright. There are alot of animals, despite other reviews, they are well fed. Some of the animals need bigger enclosures. The exotic cats, and monkeys are severely stressed out, pacing and swinging their heads constantly because they are alone and in tiny spaces. Big cats are social animals and travel in large packs, I guess the idiots running this zoo don't really care.

Mary Fitzgerald

Lots of animals to see. Some of fencing needs to be fixed. Only one alligator seen and it was in dirty water. Our kids enjoyed being able to feed the animals.

Karen Schulz

So much fun! The animals are active and it's a lot of fun to be able to feed them. Peacocks followed us around like little puppies. What a great way to spend an afternoon!

Reginald Griffin

A lot of fun yeab animal looked kinda sad but ita hot an it ia an total outside zoo. Also you can fred the animals kids loved it. Gotta see again

Darren Seet

Great if you support animal abuse and mental suffering. These people should be prosecuted. Disgusting.

Raejean Dove

The animals are so adorable and I loved hand feeding them ❤️

Jody Johnson

It was fantastic I recommend you take your kids and grandkids to it

Tim Dulin

Lots of empty cages needs a good cleaning.

Chantel Laplante

I was just here at the beach on vacation and thought it would be neat to surprise my six year old son. However this place is incredibly sketchy. Some really big animals had tiny enclosures. Even my son pointed out how they looked sad. Also they had baby toys tossed in for animals to play with and strung up by wires. None of the animals had actual food in their habitat. The chicken pen was so over crowded you can tell they're fighting each other. The black bear they had looked like it had mange and was in a habitat about the size of my living room with nothing for it to climb. And don't even get me started on the monkeys. Those poor things. Even the snake enclosures when you first walk in were dirty and small. And none of the snakes had heat lamps or thermometers. They had large macaws lined up along the wall in small bird cages you can buy from the pet store. Every thing was dirty. The lions had tiny enclosures about the same size as the black bear. Like I could go on and on. The only animals that seemed alright and well taken care of were farm animals, but they had bigger enclosures than the exotic animals. At least the peacocks got to roam free.

JoAnn Putnam

Ok to see the animals, but they were obviously stressed and did not seem to be well cared for.

Chris Lomedico

Nice relaxing walk thru zoo.

Brittany Crass

Sad... animals should have more room and not be kept in a cage.

Tiffany Parlier

The only thing missing is Chico the gorilla that died atleast 15 yrs ago and they've never replaced him! Other than that pretty nice little zoo!

Dan G

Great, simple, casual zoo. Fun to feed popcorn to several animals. Pretty grounds.

Janelle Gauck

I went to the “zoo” with my sister and young niece. We moved here a few years ago and miss the experiences from back home. I will never go back. The enclosures were tiny and dirty, and several, including the lions and bear’s enclosures, looked like even I could break out of them. It was disturbing. The animals had missing hair and appeared either lethargic, sad, or stressed. I’m not sure they’re being fed well but of course that’s an assumption because I don’t know what they’re fed. It was very sad and honestly if the bear wasn’t so lethargic I would have been afraid to be near the cage....I say cage because it’s too small to be considered an enclosure. Sad and shameful. I wish there was someone I could reach out to so I could petition for these animals to be rehomed. I’m sure the owners meant well when they started the “zoo” - but they need to accept the fact that they do not have the capabilities, room, training or finances to run the place. Those poor animals.

Christopher Wood

What the $%^& did I just walk thru? I know it's just my upbringing but to call this place a zoo is like comparing Carriers: Ike is nothing like the TR or Stennis. And I dislike Ike for reasons... I wouldn't even rate this place on the Halfling scale (but on the orc or kobold scale? Sure...) the only thing that stopped me from giving 1 star: they were polite in a very southern drawl. Can't begrudge that...

Glad to be a Loser

Amazing,many different animals,been here several times,will go back

Amanda Bremseth

HORRIFIC...anyone leaving a positive review for this hell on earth is either has a heart of stone or they are totally blind to animal suffering. Please support having this place either closed and the animals relocated to a proper sanctuary. There needs to be a massive overhaul of management to at least instill sanctuary values. There is no way that anyone here is a professional animal caregiver.

Tricia Brooks

Get to feed and pet lots of the animals. Some of them I feel like are in too small of a cage/enclosure though. Wish they would expand and give the animals more space. The people are always very nice. Admission and food for the animals is inexpensive. We go here at least once every year.

Gene McGee

Took grandkids here and they enjoyed it much. Alot of walking and was very hot out but good variety of animals and they really enjoyed it. They have wagons you can rent cheap to pull your kids or "husband" around in. Lol. Great people all friendly and helpful. I would definitely recommend it. Cheap prices and family owned.

Cathy Thompson

Someone needs to save these animals from this horrible situation. I wouldn't recommend giving your money to this place. VERY dirty. EXTRA small cages. It's honestly depressing. Can't stop thinking of those poor animals!!! This place needs a negative star review. Get your act together!

A Natural One

Great little zoo for the money if this place had more financing it would be amazing, they give you food to feed the animals for a small price, but don't expect to feed the monkeys, they are to far away from you, but you can try to toss one at them. Clean zoo, too many goats, wish they had the animals better planned out but other than that great trip for the kids.

David Arrimadas

Familiar and easy to visit place with very different kind of animals.

Jimmy Hartnett

Great place to visit more of a nature place to view no concrete natural ground to walk on very nice

Chloe Rapley

Always my favourite zoo with so many good memories here.

Lisa Artenian

Went to the zoo a few days ago and haven’t been able to stop thinking of the animals. We arrived shortly after they opened at 10:00am and were pretty much the first people in. We starting roaming and happened upon the sheep across from the Brahma. I noticed one of the sheep could put no weight on his front leg. I immediately found an employee and made them aware. She said “oh dear, we will get it out and call the vet”. Three hours later before we left, I went back to check on the sheep, he was still in the enclosure and not moving (I’m guessing because his leg/hoof was in so much pain). The monkeys are incredibly stressed, I’m not even sure the bears and tigers were actually alive. I would not recommend this zoo. It has so much potential to be amazing, but the education, care, and investment is just not there. These animals need to be removed and placed in a safe environment.

Kim Viverette

This is a cool place but need some tlc. The animals need a little bit more care. The bears and tiger look very sick and there room/cages where to small.

Sherry Johnson

Nice little zoo, could use some maintnance

Ann Roberts

We like visiting each year. Surprising how many animals they have for a family zoo.

Janet Gurwell

This place is really turning into a goat sanctuary. It has other animals but is a sad version of its former self.

Pamela Finch

Thoroughly enjoyed this zoo...well worth the money...

Brandy Jenkins

Waccatee Zoo has been apart of my life growing up, I've taken my brother and sister,my nephews and now my own kid... despite what's been said about the zoo it's STILL AND ALWAYS WILL be the best place to go!!! All the animals looked great and well feed and the grounds were kept very nicely and the concession stand was AWESOME!!! TY WACCATEE ZOO FOR A GREAT TIME!!!

JOF FDS

Sick place, the animals are in terrible condition. Vote with your wallet, don't support this 'zoo'

Edsel Moore

I loved the visit

Sheena Weaver

This place is horrible omg the animals are not took care of properly the habitat are terrible n nasty animals have sore n matted fur I cried all.the way through this place i was so sad.. Poor they nred to give the animals to a better place...

Michelle Rivera

Completely agree with Jessica Burke..VERY sad and disappointing,,cages are way too small, very dirty, the animals look so depressed I wanted to cry...half of them dont even get any sun. The camel couldnt hold his head up and the lion could hardly walk, it was almost 80 degrees and lots of the animals didnt have any water. Wondering why they have not been shut down!

jacob ferguson

I remember going here as a kid it was one of the highlights, as an adult I am realizing the true scope of what really went on there. I remember the lions Princess and I don't remember the male. He marked me and my mother. The tigers and lions both fought. And the cars why cars. The chimp could open a coke bottle. Please don't come here you will get depression. I also remember they had a raccoon in a trap like I see those every day.

Jass eline H

I’m giving this this place a one star because it’s been a day since I’ve gone and I cannot stop thinking about the animals. Yes my family had an amazing time exploring the Zoo and seeing the different animals BUT the animals are crowded in small cages , distressed and not taken care of properly. The squirrel monkey looks SO UNWELL along with the tigers, and lions. All they are fed is peanuts, corn and broccoli. The monkeys all look so bored and do not have adequate space for them selves Please reach out to other company’s or let these animals go to other zoos this is not right

Zorn Caw

Was fun. Lots of goats and tons of animals to interact with. My child enjoyed it.

CTHAWK 1

Absolutely love everything about this zoo and would definitely go here again. Love the animals, love the employees, I just love everything about the place. The peacocks running around the zoo were funny and very, very pretty. The birds and snakes in the office were super funny and pretty too. $6 for a gallon of assorted nuts/animal food was a very well spent $6, the zoo was surprisingly cheap for how much of a blast it was. The map was very easy to navigate and the animals’ habitats were very open for the animals to have space and the goats were cute

Brigitte Saket

This zoo was muxh larger than expected, you can get so close to the enclosures and really get a great view of the wildlife.

Mary Holland

Having read the reviews, my husband and I decided to check out the zoo today. With young grandkids coming soon we wanted to see for ourselves if this was worth the trip. We were pleasantly surprised. Although the buildings could use some paint and a facelift the animals were well fed, plenty of water and very active. Large variety of animals for a zoo of this size. It became clear that the negative comments were mostly from members of PETA. The staff was very friendly and helpful. Can’t wait to take the kiddies.

Kathy Diefenderfer

Staff very friendly and knowledgeable. Wide variety of wonderful animals.

Judy Hickd

it was a very nice place the animals were very healthy and beautiful

Michael Hayes

Stumbled upon this place by accident while in Myrtle beach several yrs ago, turned to be the zoo we ever experienced.. Friendly, and exotic animals & without crowds of pple, great way to spend half a day wandering with family, kids...

angelj9088

Seeing the animals was fun but the animals hair were falling out, and the monkeys looked skinny, deer and lemurs had escaped and no one bothered to put them back, logs had fallen over fences but it was not fixed.

Josh Stutts

I've been twice, once as a teenager and years later with my wife. The second visit really opened my eyes as an animal lover...the cages are small and dilapidated and many of the animals just look plain miserable. We both left feeling very uncomfortable and sad for the animals. Once the initial joy of seeing the animals wears off, the unease sets in; it's hard to argue that these animals live in the best conditions. We won't be returning.

Kirsten Moore

Do not visit zoos !!!!!! Your kids can be educated through different methods ...

True survival

I went when I was little this is not how I remember to many peocock and bad liveing codson I sagste the Asheboro zoo

xd Daisy

I went here when I was 8. It was horrible. Even being young I could tell the living conditions were hell for the animals there. A monkey had gotten a hold of a nail and was putting it in his mouth and the workers did nothing I went home crying that day. Do not support places like these because you’re giving them what they want, money. They don’t care about the animals there.

Nickie Wright

Awesome place to visit! Reminded me of Hollywild ❤ Huge variety of animals, great interaction, and very affordable

Dominique Long

Place legit needs to be shut down. All of the enclosures are terrible and not adequate for the animals they house. Mountain lion (cougar) encloure is super small. The bear and tigers are losing hair and bears was panting extremely hard. Water supply for most animals was dirty. Deers looks really week enclosure for was one of the worst I have ever seen. Someone really need to check in on these animals for there safety .

Brandon Heston

The animals seem to be pacing back and forth in their cages not much room and they was extremely hot.. I think the place needs a good update

Marcus Jackson

Needs to be closed to the public. It’s like an old beaten car with a bad engine, this zoo will not survive long on its current path. Someone will get hurt by an animal due to the old, patched, and flimsy caging; PETA may come in and shut it down; or it’s going to run out of money. I was on edge the entire time I was around, I did not feel comfortable. The big cats were all in hunt mode. The monkeys were depressive. There were many empty exhibits. Should just be used as a petting Zoo until new management can come in and revamp the Zoo. Needs a complete overhaul. It seems like the current management is just doing what they can and are probably awesome people but I know just from looking that they have way more than they can handle right now.

Spencer Young

i'd leave a 0 if possible..this zoo isn't something you should ever go to..it's depressing and left both my family and friends who came along heartbroken for the animals the front/entrance area to the zoo is very deceiving when you pull in you pull up along a huge fenced in area with some bufflo and other animals that looks very nice but then to enter the "zoo area" you go into a small rundown general store looking building that is literally just packed to the brim with bird and snake cages..where you purchase tickets and some feed to gives to animals that you see.. for a fair few animal it'd appear this was theirs only food source we went there just as they opened to beat an crowd that may gather through the afternoon only to end up depressed and feel sorry for theirs more "exotic" animal (ones that you wouldn't find at a petting zoo big cats..monkeys..bear..etc) let me just say there is a ton of petting zoo like animals like lama..pigs..sheep..goats etc.. all of which looked find and their pens were fairly clean even tho most lacked a clean or even a filled water source the exotic animal however were housed deplorable condition the cage most were housed in is literally are bare minimum size needed for housing said animal in there is a chimp that from understanding has been there for past 20+ years completely in solitude alone without any other chip to socialize with..the fox pen reeked of musk with them cowering in the corner trying get far away as possible from all the visitors.. multiple animal pacing frantically back an forth in circle cause there was nowhere for them to hide or go in the small cages. a squirrel monkey that was literally skin an bone.. i could of sat there an counted it's ribs both it's arms and legs were completely bare without an fur to be found.. this review could go on forever but im sure y'all get the gist of what i'm saying plz plz plz don't go to this zoo it's old outdated and needs shut down or completely renovated

Matthew S

If anyone reads or listens to the 2 or more star reviews, then just know they are reviews from the owners and their friends. THIS PLACE is the saddest place you will ever visit, in regards to animals. The staff boast about how they take care of the animals, but you can see with EVERY SINGLE ONE of the species here that they are distressed, not taken care of at all, neglected completely and probably not fed for days. If you don't believe me, then go waste your money here. YOU WILL SEE the sadness and depression of all the animals. Animals that are kept in small cages with NOTHING but dirt to look at and sit on for their entire life at this pathetic excuse for a zoo. How this place still operates is beyond me, and these "zookeepers" and their bosses should be thrown in jail.

Dbonelli74@gmail Honey9...

Walking rhru woods awsome

Wesley Woody

Animals look miserable, although it was really hot. I was pretty miserable myself.

Samantha Wadsworth

The cages an conditions these animals are kept in are just heart breaking. They all look miserable or like they have something neurological wrong with them. Animals should not live like that. The peacocks are the only animals that arent caged. Goats were like any other place. I am a huge zoo lover an was heart broken after visiting this place. Who cages a raccoon? That's just cruel an heartless. Half the animals cried while the others either begged for food or were totally withdrawn. Seems like a place that got a bunch of animals together in cheap cages to make money. The layout of the place is nice. The buffalo on the outside make it seem nicer than it is. It's like a prison not a healthy living habitat for these animals. Maybe they dont have as strict laws in the south or something but this place totally just broke my heart. Even my husband wanted to call peta or something.

Michael Angona

Took my girlfriend and son here for his 1st zoo visit and had an awesome time!

Levitatexx

Like other reviews if i could rate this 0 I would. Every animal didnt have food barely any water. The enclosures were tiny. I felt so bad for the monkeys, the bears all of them. I was in actual tears from how bad this experience was. The animals need to be relocated and the place needs shut down. The animals clearly arent receiving the proper vet care they need. Just awful! Never will I go back. And as for the staff being friendly? Lies. They were rude as hell. They need to mind there manners and take better care of those poor animals. They didnt ask for that kind of treatment and neglect.

Zach Gerdts

One of our favortie things to do in Myrtle! Fun, friendly staff, and you can feed most animals.

Greta Jansen

Lots of interaction with the animals. Kids loved that they could feed so many animals.

Emilee Cook

It was alright. Loved seeing the animals but they need cleaner and bigger spaces. The bears and lions dont have much room. I enjoyed it a little bit but probably won't go there again.

Meredith Clawson

"This zoo receives no state or government funding, just lots of T.L.C." Evidenced by the look of the place- that being said, keep reading. I'm not a huge fan of zoos but this is one we repeatedly visit when on vacation. It's a great reprieve from the touristy areas in Myrtle Beach. Animals there were either born in captivity or rescues. A few years ago about 1 year after the movie Madagascar came out they had SO many lemurs!!! Come to find out that people had bought them as "personal" exotic pets then decided later they didn't want them- this place took these unwanted animals and gave them a home. I'm sure they could use more assistance and funds to be able to have better upkeep. Wish I could win the lottery for them! Go lend your support, I'm sure they'd appreciate it. In regard to another review, the Tiger enclosure today had a sign up stating hes under vets care due to problems due to aging. Poor baby, but glad someone is caring for him. Also, if you look closely at their enclosures (and the bears) theres a small door towards the back that open up into another space. So, all in all, we enjoy the serenity of this place (even the sqwaking bird at the entrance) and we'll continue donating, buying food, gifts, etc from there as long as we can!

Aleksandra Brzezinska

A really sad place! Animals are locked away in small cages developing extreme psychological distress. I think no one should go there and support this zoo and it's terrible approach to animals.

Julia Davis

That's good

misty coleman

Love love love the little zoo. Great way to make memories. we've visited 2 times now and we always felt welcome. New things to see each time. Great staff. Funny and cool animals. As clean as you can get for a zoo outdoors but id love to go back.

Rachelle laughlin

This place was so incredibly disgusting oh, the animals are in tiny and closures, dirty enclosures, the monkeys hair is falling out animals are absolutely miserable. I couldn't help but report this because these animals need to be removed immediately. To the owners, you are disgusting. Also, fix the Tigers enclosure you should not be falling apart.

Diane Pullano

This zoo was small but had many of the common zoo type animals. Lots of opportunities to feed animals. Small cages made it hard to view some of the animals. Overall it was fun for a first time visit.

Valerie Larry

This is a very interesting place tucked away just a few miles from the main strip of myrtle beach. Many of the animals are active and look healthy. The entrance is also the snake housing area so you walk by their enclosures to get into the main area. Kids loved it. The price is fair and the limited gift shop items were all very reasonably priced. I think if additional funding would be used to dress up the entrance, add to the gift shop and do some minor repairs it would make a huge difference. Overall, we will return.

Zackariah Murphy

My wife and I had a lot of fun here. Food bags were a decent price. There was a crapload full of turtles that we fed in a lake. There was over 100 I'm not over exaggerating. I like that the deer was free roaming around. One got very close to us and we gave it food. I loved seeing a bear up close. Bigger cages are needed yes but I really loved this place.

SPN Fangirl

If I could rate a zero I would. The animals health is poor, limbs on the fences and fences are damaged and not been fixed. So many trees down and not cleaned up, weeds growing everywhere and not being managed for the animals. Water barrels full of green water and animals act like they're starving. There's not much room for them to move around and the smells are horrible. Animals look so unhappy in their small cages. It's so sad. We will not be going back. They don't keep nothing clean.

Carissa Wikstrom

5 hours was barely enough time for all of the cool animals at the Waccatee Zoo. There were peacocks everywhere, and an assortment of grazing animals at the entrance. Most of the animals you can feed even let you pet them. Make sure to buy a bag of peanuts; a cup is not enough! I was a little concerned about the large cats in such small cages, and saw one ape attack his own leg, which was strange. There were a few animals pacing, like the cougar and the tiger. Some of the animals were clearly very old. I'm not an expert, and the staff who care for the animals seemed very knowledgeable. Overall, it was a great day, and everyone seemed very nice.

samaria huff

LOVE this little/big zoo, definitely one of the best kept secrets in Myrtle Beach. I cannot wait to take my family next time they come down to visit. It's like a GINORMOUS petting zoo, it was a TON of fun. I highly recommend to everyone.

David Spence

Used to be fun but now the animals look stressed, sick and uncomfortable

B Potter

Horrible living conditions for these poor animals. I just want to take them all and give them a better life. They should not have to live like that. If you truly care about animals at all, you will be sad visiting this place. Something needs to be done!!!

Portia Jacobs

This is not the best zoo you will visit in your life. The animals all seem to be stressed out.. their cages are very small, multiple cages were without water, the goats were literally standing and jumping inside of their empty water bins, the animals were digging dirt, walking in circles and just seemed sad, and depressed.. multiple animals looked as if they were suffering from a skin condition!! I gave 2 stars because I did however enjoy the hands on experience, feeding the animals, the openness of the zoo, there is plenty of shade, and its pretty big for the price. I would recommend visiting somewhere else. This zoo has a lot of work that needs to be done.. I wouldn't say completely shut it down, but as many people that are complaining under the reviews since we know this is a family owned business we should lend a helping hand.. if not for the business owners, at least for the animals.

Jordan Zuber

I was shocked to see the living conditions of the animals here- so shocked that I contacted PETA about this zoo. I just became so upset thinking about what these animals are subjected to daily. Not surprisingly, PETA has been contacted countless times regarding the neglect and lack of basic needs provided at this zoo. If you want to make a difference- don't support this zoo. Do your part in fighting places like this.

Tiger Eldridge

We like going to this zoo. We go every year while we vacation in Myrtle Beach.

sue N

Reasonably priced, friendly staff and animals. A great place to picnic and spend 4 hours, a must do while at myrtle!

Samantha Nelson

If I could give it zero stars, I would. The enclosures are INSANELY too small, the animals are so stressed they are missing fur, and there was a duck in the "duck pen" that was missing it's entire head. There was garbage everywhere and the entire park seemed to be in utter disrepair. Yes, the animals are up close and you can feed them, but I would rather there NOT be dead animals in their pens and have to admire from afar.

Patricia Doyle

Not worth the money or drive at all. Overran by chickens and goats. Hardly had any big animals.

Andrea Sutton

This place is seriously horrible. After a family friend visited and showed us pictures of the horrid conditions the animals lived in I was completely shocked!! They left after 30 minutes thankfully but that’s enough to stay with you forever. These animals have NO lives, clearly have psychological problems, and their habit doesn’t even come close to mimicking real life nature. For the people giving it 5 stars and claiming you’re an “animal lover” you also clearly have psychological problems. Mind blowing to me this place is still open.

Isaac show

the greatest zoo in America... my family loved it. people who are bashing obviously do not appreciate seeing lions and tigers so up close. so many animals to feed up close. your kids will love it Price is very reasonable compared to. Miami and NYC zoos or Pennsylvania and Illinois this zoo is great just needs a little upgrade to be more civil for animals but it gives you that old country feeling, something we are missing these days do to technology. but this place is the greatest zoo in America period

Alana Tilley

They can do a little better with the animals

Robert Higgins

I had a great time with my 4 and 5 yr olds.

SkylineBlue

Although it doesn't have the looks, it's really fun and has a lot of animals to feed. Really great place!!

Ashley Smith

Some of the stuff members werent very friendly and socialable at all!! But my 4yr old enjoyed walking the trails to see all the animals and the animal looked healthy pleasant we enjoyed it!!

Julia Clemons

I almost started crying while walking through the zoo. The animals have barely any room to roam around and they look so hungry. Would not reccomend coming to this zoo.

Melissa

Don’t believe any of these 5 stars reviews they are all fake! People who think this is an actual zoo. Try again! What kind of zoo puts their animals in small enclosures, and lets you buy bags of peanuts to feed them? Every single animal is showing signs of distress. This place needs to be shut down immediately, and these animals need to have better homes/people to take care of them. I DO NOT RECOMMEND this place, please don’t go here. If you support this place, you support animal abuse!

Clean Free Carpet Cleaning

This is a great place to take your family. All the people upset over animal rights and cruelty can just suck it. The animals are fine they're well-fed and there well cared for. If they were to be in the wild they wouldn't live as long. Besides it's not like they have every specie by the hundreds in captivity. They have some of the rarest creatures in the world there!!!

Jessica Rhoads

This "zoo" is deplorable. There is not enough space for the animals. Most animals look severely underfed. People throwing random feed into the animals exhibits, many times hitting them. There are countless problems. My husband and I were told not to go by many people but wanted to give it the benefit of the doubt. Now we regret ever stepping foot in there. I'm a strong advocate for zoos, but places like this just shouldnt exist. I hope these animals get rehomed to zoos that actually care. Dont waste your time or Money supporting places like this.

Kathy Gantt

Had a great time lots of different animals and walking trails

Danielle Allen

We really enjoyed going thru the zoo! The staff were very friendly! Yes, there are some animals that could use larger enclosures and the zoo itself could use some TLC but in all fairness these folks receive no funding from outside sources and the animals were all fed and had water! We will be back for sure!

Vincent Tripi

Fun zoo for all ages. Many different animals exhibits to see. Big area and many paths that will last hours.

Wombling Wombat

The animals are housed in enclosures that hardly even attempt to mimic a natural setting. This “Zoo” is nothing more than an animal prison. Not sure what I’d rather see abused circus animals or this place. I am by no means a crazy animal rights activist, but under no circumstances are these animals kept in just conditions. I can only imagine how stressed the animals must be. The animals have nothing to do other than pace back and forth monotonously. If you or your loved ones do wish to see exotic animals I urge you to find a facility that is dedicated to the health of the animals. Find a rescue facility that rehabilitates or shelters animals to the best of their abilities. Then not only would you be promoting ethical treatment of animals, but you would have a chance to teach your loved ones the importance of captive animal health.

Linda Bowman-Peeples

My kids loved it. A lot of opportunities to interact with animals, however, I felt as if they need to take better care of those poor animals. There was a bear standing in mud and not a dry spot in his very small enclosure. Many of the enclosures need updating/expansion and repair. They are not providing quality of life for these animals and I wish they would PLEASE get those parrots out of those tiny cages at the entrance! Great for kids, can be a stomach Turner for adults....

Gail Hardy

Its ok if you mainly want to see goats. It is a goat farm.Lot of tree ruins on paths hard to get around. Aminals in cages that need to much larger. Felt so sorry for the lion,and tiger and monkeys and the bird in store. They cant be happy in the small cages no room to move. Very said

Sue Grolton

Nice little zoo tucked back off the road. Peacocks greet you as you drive in with open plumage like Walmart Greeters! Lions and Tigers and Bears oh my!

Mary Iski

Lots of fun, but watch your step!

Travis McCorkle

Don't go. The horrible treatment and inadequate living conditions they put these poor animals in is astonishing. They looked and acted starved too!

Nancy Armstrong

I feel terrible about having to say this but that Zoo should be shut down. Most of the animals are kept in cages that are too small for them. The place is falling apart, there are trees which have fallen and knocked down fences, the cages that the animals are in are not kept up it is an absolute disgrace. Something needs to be done right away. These animals should not have to be kept in these awful conditions

Ali Mcmaster

Something has to be done about this horrible place. IF YOU GO HERE, YOU ARE SUPPORTING ANIMAL ABUSE and NEGLECT. Each and everyone one of these animals look unhealthy and show signs of psychological distress. Don’t forget when you try and volunteer they just tell you no and shoo you out the door. By the way do you think feeding any type of animal peanuts is okay? You think putting an animal is a small enclosure is okay when it clearly it isn’t even big enough for a household pet? You think open wounds and cuts on an animal is okay to go unnoticed for days? How about watching animals pace back and forth while others rocked back and forth? Think again before paying to come here. If you can’t afford to take care of the animals, I’m sorry you shouldn’t have them.

Lisa Hughes

I absolutely loved it. The whole family enjoyed it